Hand Held Dermaplaning Device and Dermaplaning Process

ABSTRACT

A method and a hand-held device for dermaplaning is disclosed that includes a blade with a safety cage forming an assembly removably mounted to a housing. The dermaplaning device is configured to limit the depth that the blade can penetrate the skin which makes the device safe for use by non-professionals. The dermaplaning device is electrically powered to cause the blade to vibrate at a predetermined frequency. Various embodiments of the hand-held dermaplaning device are disclosed for vibrating the blade. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the blade includes a safety guard for limiting the amount of penetration of the blade into the facial skin to enable the device to be safely used by non-professionals.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is the National Stage filing of International Appl. No. PCT/US2013/058708 under 35 U.S.C. 371, filed on Sep. 9, 2013 and a continuation-in-part of co-pending patent application Ser. No. 14/062,262, filed on Oct. 24, 2013.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to hand held device and process used in treating facial skin and more particularly to a hand held dermaplaning device for exfoliating facial skin that is safe to use by non-professionals as well as a process for dermaplaning facial skin.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Various processes are known for treating facial skin. These processes are known to include hand-held devices and fall into several categories as follows:

Shaving

Cleansing and Moisturizing

Dermabrasion

Dermaplaning (Exfoliation)

Debridement

Shaving is used to remove facial hair by way of a razor. In addition to standard safety razors, U.S. Pat. No. 3,509,626 and Russian Patent RU 2320476 disclose safety razors with piezo-electric crystals attached to the blade for vibrating the blade at ultrasonic frequencies during shaving. These devices include a safety razor, a piezo-electric crystal, battery and a circuit for coupling the battery to the piezo-electric crystal. These devices are used for removing excess hair from a person's face and do not remove any skin. Such devices are configured for non-professional use.

In addition to manual treatment, cleansing and moisturizing may be accomplished by way of hand-held devices. For example, US Patent Application Publication No. US 2005/0043653 A1 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,931,859 and 6,119,035 disclose hand held devices for dispensing a liquid to a person's face. These devices include a cleansing mode in which a micro-current is applied to cleanse the skin. US Patent Application Publication No. US 2008/0139974 A1 discloses a hand held device for just applying a moisturizing liquid to a person's face. An example of such a device is also disclosed in: voutube.com/watch?v-W1PcSf253cs.

Other hand-held devices are known for cleansing facial skin which rely on ultrasonic frequencies. Examples of these devices are disclosed in Japanese Patent No. JP20000060427; South Korean Patent Nos.: KR 20040022550 and KR 20080006875. Additional examples of such devices can be found at the following locations:

youtube.com/watch?NR=1 &v=jypKIrpGDIg&feature=fvwp; youtube.com/watch?v=fmSS2uexmac and http:/dermasonic.com/how.html. Such devices are also configured for non-professional use.

Dermabrasion is a cosmetic surgical procedure for removing an outer layer of skin by abrading the skin with fine sandpaper or wire brushes to remove scars or other imperfections. This procedure is used to abrade the skin down to the dermis. The dermis is a layer of skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissues that consist of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. Dermabrasion normally requires an anesthetic and is normally done by medical professionals, such as dermatologists. Because of the possibility of infections and scarring, dermabrasion is a relatively unpopular choice for facial skin treatment.

Hand held devices for performing dermabrasion are known. Exemplary hand-held devices used for dermabrasion are disclosed and described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,052,662 and US Patent Application Publication Nos. US 2003/0233085 A1; US 2004/0185067 A1; US 2007/0293795 A1; US 2009/0048557 A1; US 2009/0124985 A1; and US 2013/0144280 A1. In general, such devices include an applicator having an abrasive material applied to the surface. The applicator is attached to a piezo-electric crystal for vibrating the applicator at ultrasonic frequencies. The vibrating applicator is applied to areas of the face of interest. U.S. Pat. No. 7,384,405 discloses a hand-held device that includes a rotating brush with abrasive bristles. Hand-held dermabrasion devices are known to be available for professional and non-professional use.

Debridement is a surgical technique performed by a licensed physician for removing unhealthy tissue, such as, necrotic, i.e., dead, infected, damaged, contaminated tissue or in situations to remove a foreign body in the tissue. US Patent Application Publication No. US 2012/0101512 A1 discloses a hand held device that is known to be used for debridement. The device includes blade carried by a handle. The blade is a small, dull flat blade operable to scrape the necrotic tissue away from the tissue site without harming any of the healthy tissue located adjacent the necrotic tissue. A piezoelectric crystal is attached to the blade to vibrate the blade at ultrasonic frequencies. Such debridement devices are only available for professional use.

Dermaplaning is a relatively popular process that is relatively simple and safe and is used for exfoliating the epidermis, i.e. outer layer of cells in the skin, and removing fine vellus hair, i.e. peach fuzz, from the skin. Dermaplaning is a process normally performed by licensed skin care professionals, such as, estheticians. Using a scalpel and a delicate touch, the scalpel is swept across the skin with light feathering strokes to exfoliate the skin. Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface.

Dermaplaning facial skin has many benefits. For example, removing epidermal skin allows skin care products to penetrate more readily into deeper layers of the skin for better results. As mentioned above, dermaplaning removes vellus hair which tends to cause a build-up of dirt and oils in the follicles. Removal of the hair results in healthier looking skin.

Hand-held devices used for dermaplaning normally include a surgical style scalpel consisting of a blade and a handle. Such scalpels are not available for non-professional use. As such, dermaplaning is only available at spas with licensed skin care professionals. Such dermaplaning treatments at spas can be relatively expensive. Unfortunately, there are no known dermaplaning devices known for non-professional home use. Thus, there is a need to provide a hand-held device and method for dermaplaning for non-professional use that overcomes this problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, the present invention relates a method and a hand-held device for dermaplaning that is relatively safe for non-professional use. The hand-held device includes a blade with a safety cage forming an assembly removably mounted to a housing. The safety cage limits the depth that the blade can penetrate the skin which makes the device safe for use by non-professionals. Various embodiments of the hand-held dermaplaning device are contemplated. In one embodiment, a piezoelectric crystal is used to cause the blade to vibrate at ultrasonic frequencies. In an alternate embodiment, a motor driving an eccentric load may be used for vibrating the blade at other frequencies. In yet another alternate embodiment, the motor with an eccentric load and the piezoelectric crystal are selectively and alternatively used to vibrate the blade. In embodiments that include a motor, the motor speed may be optionally adjustable to enable the vibration frequency to be varied. In accordance with an important aspect of the device, the blade includes a safety guard for limiting the amount of penetration of the blade into the facial skin to enable the device to be safely used by non-professionals. A dermaplaning process is also disclosed that can be used by non-professionals.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

These and other advantages of the present invention will be readily understood with reference to the following specification and attached drawing wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an exemplary dermaplaning device in accordance with one embodiment of the device.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4a-4d is an exemplary schematic of a 4 phase rotary electric switch for use with the present invention, wherein FIG. 4a discloses an OFF position; FIG. 4b illustrates a position in ultrasonic mode; FIG. 4c illustrates an intermediate OFF position and FIG. 4d illustrates a sonic mode.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary schematic for the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 3 illustrating an embodiment that includes a piezoelectric crystal, a motor with an eccentric load and an optional rheostat for controlling the speed of the motor.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an exemplary printed circuit board for use with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 1 but without the thumbwheel.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a dermaplaning device that only includes a piezoelectric crystal.

FIG. 9 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 8

FIG. 10 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary printed circuit board for use with the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of another alternate embodiment of a dermaplaning device that only includes a motor and an eccentric load.

FIG. 13 is side elevational view in section of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13a is an alternate embodiment of the device illustrated in FIG. 12 illustrating a removable blade.

FIGS. 13b, 13c and 13d illustrate how the removable blade is attached to the scalpel.

FIG. 13e is a side elevational view illustrating the removable blade attached to the scalpel.

FIG. 13f is similar to FIG. 13e but illustrating the removable blade removed from the scalpel.

FIG. 13g is another alternate embodiment of the of the device illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary printed circuit board for use with the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 is a partial side elevational view of the dermaplaning device in accordance with the present invention illustrating the removable blade attached to a handle portion of the housing.

FIG. 16a is an enlarged partial view of the blade illustrating the safety cage and the blade housing.

FIG. 17 is a partial isometric view illustrating an exemplary blade guard.

FIG. 18 is a partial isometric view of an exemplary blade for use with the present invention shown removed from the handle portion of the housing illustrating an exemplary bayonet type interface.

FIG. 19 illustrates a partial isometric view of a person using the dermaplaning device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 20 is drawing of a face with the arrows illustrating the direction of the strokes of the dermaplaning device on a user's face.

FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the exemplary dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 1, shown with exemplary dimensions and shown with a blade assembly installed.

FIG. 22 is a partial enlarged view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a top view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21, also shown with exemplary dimensions.

FIG. 24A is a side elevational view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 24 shown with the blade assembly removed.

FIG. 24B is similar to FIG. 24A shown with the dermaplaning device upside down to illustrate the guide rails on the dermaplaning device for slidably receiving the blade assembly.

FIG. 25A is an isometric view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21 shown carried by an exemplary portable stand.

FIG. 25B is an isometric view of the portable stand illustrated in FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the dermaplaning device and portable stand illustrated in FIG. 46, shown tipped on its side to illustrate the bottom of the portable stand and the power connection.

FIG. 27A illustrates an enlarged partial sectional view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21 shown with a blade inserted.

FIG. 27 B is a sectional view of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21, shown mounted in the portable stand illustrated in FIG. 25B, shown with a table of component parts keyed to reference numbers in circles.

FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary blade assembly shown with a blade holder or safety cage and a blade.

FIG. 29 is a top view of a blade retainer for use with the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a front elevational view of the blade retainer illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of the blade retainer illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is an exemplary electrical schematic drawing of the dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 33 is an exemplary software flow diagram of the for exemplary dermaplaning device illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 34 is an exemplary outline dimension diagram of the vibration generator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure includes a method and a hand-held device for dermaplaning that is relatively safe for non-professional use. Various embodiments of the hand-held dermaplaning device are contemplated, as discussed below. The hand-held device includes a blade assembly removably mounted to a housing. The blade assembly includes a safety cage or blade holder juxtaposed over the cutting edge of the blade for limiting the amount of penetration of the blade into the facial skin to enable the device to be safely used by non-professionals. As such, use of the device enables non-professionals to safely perform dermaplaning on a person's face.

Four exemplary embodiments of the dermaplaning device are described and illustrated. All four embodiments include an exemplary outer housing, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 7 and 21 and a blade assembly complete with a safety cage or blade holder, and a vibration generator, The first embodiment includes a piezoelectric crystal circuit for vibrating the blade at an ultrasonic frequency, for example, frequencies above 20,000 Hertz and a motor with an eccentric rotary load which vibrates the blade assembly at frequencies other than ultrasonic frequencies, for example, frequencies less than 20,000 Hertz. The second embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 7-10. In this embodiment, the dermaplaning device only includes a piezoelectric crystal circuit attached to the blade. The third embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 11-14. In this embodiment, the dermaplaning device includes an outer housing as shown in FIG. 1 and includes a motor with a rotary eccentric load as a vibration generator.

FIGS. 21-23, 24A and 24B, 27A and 27B illustrate a fourth embodiment of a dermaplaning device which includes a vibration generator, for example, a motor and an eccentrically mounted mass mounted on the motor shaft. FIGS. 25A, 25B and 26 illustrate an exemplary base for the device illustrated in FIGS. 21-23, 24A, 24B, 27A and 27B. FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate an exemplary electrical schematic and software flow diagram for the fourth embodiment. FIG. 34 illustrates details of an exemplary vibration generator which includes a motor and an eccentric.

FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary blade assembly for the fourth embodiment. FIGS. 29-31 illustrate an exemplary blade retainer for the blade illustrated in FIG. 28.

Fourth Embodiment

The fourth embodiment of the dermaplaning device is illustrated in FIGS., 21-34. Referring first to FIGS. 21-23, 24A, 24B and 24C, a fourth exemplary embodiment of the dermaplaning device is illustrated. Exemplary dimensions are shown. FIGS. 21-23 illustrate the dermaplaning device with the blade assembly installed while FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate the dermaplaning device with the blade removed. The dermaplaning device, identified with the reference numeral 300, includes a removable blade assembly 302, a handle portion 304 and a base portion 306. The handle portion 304 and the base portion 306 form an outer housing.

FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate an exemplary base for storing and charging the dermaplaning device 300. As best shown in FIG. 25B, the exemplary base 308 includes a cradle portion 310 for receiving the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300 and a stand portion 312 to enable the handle portion 304 to rest upon it. As shown, the cradle portion 310 is formed with a slot contoured to the bottom support surfaces of the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300, as shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B. The slot 310 is contoured so that the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300 rests upon the bottom surfaces of the slot 310 and the sidewalls of the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300 are in contact with the sidewalls 313 of the slot 310.

The stand portion 312 is used to carry the dermaplaning device 300 in an upright position at approximately at an angle of 50 from the horizontal, as shown in FIG. 25A. A top surface 314 is angled to support the handle portion 304 intermediate the free end.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the connection between the dermaplaning device 300 and the base 308 is a mechanical connection. As will be discussed in more detail below, the exemplary device may also include an induction charger. The primary winding of the induction charger is carried in the base and “connects” by magnetic induction to a secondary winding and a battery charger in the device 300. In such an embodiment shown, the dermaplaning device 300 is formed as a portable device and may include an internal rechargeable battery. The induction type battery charger may be implemented for charging the internal battery. As will be discussed in more detail below, the internal battery is charged by induction when the dermaplaning device 300 is seated in the base 308. The components are configured so that the secondary of the induction battery charger is within a predetermined distance from the primary side of the induction battery charger. Thus, the internal battery is charged even though there is no electrical contact between the dermaplaning device 300 and the base 308.

Various alternate embodiments are also contemplated. One alternate embodiment contemplates an internal battery that is not re-chargeable. In such an embodiment, the non-rechargeable battery is periodically replaced. In other alternate embodiments which include re-chargeable batteries, external electrical contacts are formed on the exterior of the dermaplaning device 300 that are configured to mate with corresponding contacts on the base 308. In this embodiment, the external contacts on the base 308 are connected to an external source of AC or DC for charging the internal rechargeable battery.

In yet another alternate embodiment, the dermaplaning device 300 is powered from an external source of AC that is hardwired into the device 300. This embodiment requires a constant source of AC power for operation.

In the embodiment illustrated and described, the device includes an internal battery that is charged by an induction charger. The primary induction circuit discussed below is housed between the bottom surface of the base and the top surface of the plate 316. The primary induction circuit is terminated at a fixed connector (not shown) that is accessible by way of a cut-out 322 in the bottom plate 316. An external connector 324 is configured to mate with the fixed connector. The external connector is connected to a cable that is connected to an external source of electric power.

As shown in FIG. 26, the base 308 is tipped on its side in order to illustrate a bottom plate 316, attached to the bottom of the base 308 by a pair of fasteners 318 and 320. As illustrated in FIG. 27B, the space between the bottom plate 316 and the bottom side of a top surface 317 (FIG. 25B) of the base 308 may be used to carry primary side of the charging circuit. In particular, several of the components including: a ballast block 421, steel block 428, a magnet switch 427, and a printed circuit board 429 are carried in the cradle portion 310 of the base 308. A socket 431 is accessible from the bottom of the base 308 for receiving the internal connector 322 (FIG. 26) for connection to an external power source (not shown). A magnet 404 carried by the device is configured to be aligned with the steel block 428 when the device 300 is received in the cradle portion 310 of the base 306. This causes the magnetic switch 427 to trip to indicate that the device 300 is in position for charging. This causes a transmit coil 434 in the stand portion 312 of the base 306 to be connected to the external source of power. The transmit coil 434 is positioned in the stand portion 312 of the cradle portion 310 so as to be aligned with a receive coil 435 formed in the handle portion 304 of the device 300. As such, when the device 300 is seated in the base 308 and the external connector 324 (FIG. 26) is connected to the socket 431 in the base 308 and to an external source of power, the power applied to the transmit coil 434 is coupled to the receive coil 435 by magnetic induction to charge an internal battery 403 carried by the device 300.

FIG. 27A illustrates an enlarged partial sectional view of the head portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300, shown with a blade assembly 302 inserted. FIG. 27B illustrates a more detailed sectional view of the dermaplaning device seated in the base 308. FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary blade holder 330.

Referring first to FIG. 28, the blade holder 330 is shown which includes a 364 blade and blade guard 368. The blade holder 330 is formed with a pair of longitudinal slots 332 on opposing sides. These slots 332 cooperate with a pair of spaced apart rails 334 ((FIG. 24B) formed on the underside of the dermaplaning device 300. The spaced apart rails 334 act as a guide to enable the blade holder 330 to slide in and slide out of the dermaplaning device 300.

Various types of locking mechanisms are contemplated for locking the blade assembly 330 in place during use. An exemplary locking mechanism is illustrated in FIG. 27A. In particular, a spring loaded bullet pin 411 is carried by the base portion 306 of the dermaplaning device 300 and configured to cooperate with an arcuate notch 336, formed in the blade assembly 330. As the blade assembly 330 is slid into place, the spring loaded bullet pin 411 is biased downwardly under the influence of the spring force. As the blade assembly 330 approaches its fully inserted position, the spring force urges the bullet pin 411 downwardly until it is seated in the arcuate notch 336 formed at an end of the blade assembly 330, as shown in FIG. 27A, thus locking the blade assembly 330 in place.

In order to remove the blade assembly 330, a lateral force, opposite the insertion force, is applied to the blade assembly 330. The lateral force causes the bullet pin 411 to retract as its tip rides up the curved surface of the arcuate notch 336. Once the bullet pin 411 is free of the arcuate notch 336, the blade assembly 330 is essentially unlocked and the blade assembly 330 can be removed.

Positive indication may be provided to the control logic for the dermaplaning device 300 such that the blade assembly 330 is fully inserted in the dermaplaning device 300. In particular, a pair of micro-switches 408 and 409 are provided to provide a positive indication that the blade assembly 330 is fully inserted in the dermaplaning device 300. These micro-switches 408 and 409 are actuated by spring loaded bullet pins 411 and 414, respectively. In particular, the spring loaded bullet pin 411 is configured to actuate the microswitch 408 while the spring loaded bullet pin 414 is configured to actuate the micro-switch 409. The bullet pins 411 and 414 ride along the top surfaces of blade assembly 330 as it is being inserted into the dermaplaning device 300. In particular, as the blade assembly 330 is being inserted, the bullet pin 414 rides along a top surface 350 (FIG. 28) of the blade assembly 330 and initially activates the microswitch 408. As the bullet pin 414 is moved past the surface 350, the spring loaded bullet pin 414 is biased downwardly de-activating the microswitch 408. As the blade assembly 330 is continuously inserted, the bullet pin 411 is biased upwardly by the surface 350 (FIG. 28), thereby actuating the microswitch 408, which remains actuated while the blade assembly 330 is fully inserted into the dermaplaning device 300. As the blade assembly 330 is further inserted, the bullet pin 414 is biased upwardly by an extending tab 352, formed on a top surface 354 of the blade assembly 330. At this point, both bullet pins 411 and 414 are biased upwardly, thereby actuating both micro-switches 408 and 409. As will be discussed below, the dermaplaning device 300 is inoperable until both micro-switches 408 and 409 are actuated.

The dermaplaning device 300 may also be configured so that a blade assembly 330 cannot be re-used once the blade assembly 330 has been reused from the device. Various mechanical interlock systems are contemplated. An exemplary interlock system is illustrated in FIG. 27A. For example, a spring loaded pivotable knife blade 422 extends downwardly from the bottom of the body 306 of the dermaplaning device 300 and extends into the path of the blade assembly 330. A forward surface 353 of the knife blade 422 is formed with a cammed surface. As such, as the blade assembly 330 is being inserted, the extending tab 352 causes the knife blade 422 to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. As the blade assembly 330 continues advancing toward a fully inserted position, the knife blade 422 returns to a normal position, as shown. When the blade assembly 330 is removed, the tab 352 catches against a flat surface 355 of the knife blade 351. A surface 357 prevents the knife blade 422 from rotating in a clock-wise direction when the blade assembly 330 is being removed. In order to remove the blade assembly 330, a sufficient lateral force must be exerted to break the tab 352 to allow the blade assembly 330 to be removed. Once it is removed, the tab 352 will not be available on a re-insertion to activate bullet pin 414 and the microswitch 409. As will be discussed in more detail, unless both micro-switches 408 and 409 are activated, the dermaplaning device 300 will not operate. Thus, the tab 352 prevents the blade assembly 330 from being re-used.

An exemplary blade assembly 330 is illustrated in FIG. 28. The blade assembly 330 is formed with an exemplary body that is configured to slide between the rails 334 (FIG. 24B) of the dermaplaning device 300. The exemplary blade assembly 330 includes a body portion 360, a nose portion 362 and a may include a blade guard portion 364. Alternatively, the blade guard portion may be formed as part of the blade. The nose portion 362 is formed to fit into a cut-out 366 in the base portion 306 (FIG. 24A) of the dermaplaning device 300. The blade guard portion 364 extends outwardly from the bottom of the body portion 360. The blade guard portion 364 is formed with a plurality of outwardly extending teeth, generally identified with the reference numeral 368. The teeth 368 extend substantially the entire length of the blade assembly 330. The teeth 368 are spaced apart. The blade 364 is disposed slightly below the tips of the teeth 368, for example, as illustrated and discussed in connection with FIG. 16a . In other words, the teeth extend farther out than the edge of the blade. The distance between the tips of the teeth 368 and the edge of the blade establishes the penetration of the blade. Typically, a penetration of several millimeters is suitable for non-professional use.

An exemplary blade retainer 370 is illustrated in FIGS. 29-31. The blade retainer 370 is used to carry extra blade assemblies 330. As shown in FIG. 29, the exemplary blade retainer 370 with dimensions as shown includes an exemplary six (6) slots 372 for carrying six (6) blade assemblies 330. The blade assemblies 330 are oriented in the blade retainer 370 to enable the blade assemblies 330 to be loaded directly into the dermaplaning device 300 without requiring the user to touch the blade assembly 330. As shown in FIGS. 31-33, the blade retainer 370 is formed in a oval shape with the slots 372 formed perpendicular to the major axis of the oval.

An exemplary electrical schematic diagram and an exemplary software logic flow diagram are illustrated in FIGS. 32A and 33, respectively. Turning first to FIG. 32A, an exemplary embodiment of a battery charging circuit is illustrated. In particular, the battery charging circuit is coupled to an external source of electric power by magnetic induction. In particular, a primary winding (not shown) is disposed in the base 308 (FIG. 26). The primary winding is terminated to the receive coil 435 (FIG. 27B). As mentioned above, the transmit coil 434 and the balance of the primary circuit are carried by the cradle portion 310 of the base 308. When the device 300 is fully seated in the cradle portion 310 of the base 308, the magnetic switch 427 will close connecting the primary winding 434 to the socket 431. If the connector 324 is connected to the socket 431 and to an external source of power, a voltage will be induced in the secondary winding 400 (FIG. 32), which in turn, is connected to a battery charger circuit for charging the internal battery 403.

An exemplary configuration for the primary winding diameter 434 and the secondary winding 435 diameter (FIG. 27B) is 16 mm by 3 mm with a maximum coupling distance of 5 mm. The secondary winding 435 is connected to a bridge rectifier 402 which includes four diodes. The output of the bridge rectifier 402 is an unregulated DC voltage that is connected to a battery charger U1, for example, a lithium ion constant current/constant voltage battery charger, Model No. TP054. A pair capacitors C1 and C2 are connected across the output of the bridge rectifier 402 to stabilize the voltage to the battery charger U1. In addition, a Zener diode D2 is also connected as a shunt regulator across the output of the bridge rectifier 402 to protect the battery charger U1 from voltages above the Zener voltage. A pair of series connected resistors R1 and R3 are also connected across the rectified 402 output. These resistors form a voltage divider and are used to generate a signal <POW IN> representative of the voltage applied to the battery charger U1. This signal <POW IN> is used to indicate to a microprocessor 404, for example, a Tenx Model No. TM57/PA10A-SOP16, that the charging circuit is connected to an external source of power.

A positive rail of the bridge rectifier 402 is connected to a voltage terminal VDD on the battery charger U1. A negative rail of the bridge rectifier 402 is connected to a ground terminal GND on the battery charger U1. A charge status terminal CHRG on the battery charger U1 is used to indicate the state of charging. This terminal CHRG is applied to the microprocessor 404 and is pulled low during battery charging and is thus used to indicate to the microprocessor 404 the presence of a charging cycle. A terminal BAT, connected to a positive rail of the battery 403 for charging. A pair of voltage divider resistors R2 and R5 is connected across the battery 403 to develop a signal <POW BT>. This signal <POW BT> is fed to the microprocessor 404. The battery 403 is connected across the positive and negative rails of the charging circuit. Anytime, the battery 403 falls below 2.9 volts DC, the battery charger U1 causes a trickle charge to be applied to the battery 403 until the battery 4031 reaches 2.9 volts DC. The battery charger U1 then enters a constant current mode. The charging current is programmable and is programmed by the resistor R4 attached to the PROG terminal of the battery charger U1.

A voltage stabilizing capacitor C3 is connected across the input of a voltage regulator 406. The positive rail is also connected to an input terminal Vin on a voltage regulator 406. The voltage regulator 406 regulates the output voltage of the battery to a nominal 2.8 volts DC. The 2.8 volt DC output is available at an output terminal Vout of the regulator 406. A ground terminal GND on the voltage regulator 406 is connected to system ground. A pair of capacitors C3 and C4 is connected between the output terminal Vout on the voltage regulator 406 and system ground. These capacitors C3 and C4 are connected in parallel and are used to stabilize the output voltage at the output terminal Vout of the regulator 406.

The microprocessor 404 controls the dermaplaning device 300. The microprocessor 404 receives inputs from the micro-switches 408 and 409 (FIG. 27A), the state of charging by the battery charger U1, the battery voltage, whether the on-off switch is actuated and whether the dermaplaning device 300 is being charged by the charging cradle portion 308. In particular, a CHRG signal from the battery charger U1 is applied to a port PA3 of the microprocessor 404. The CHRG signal is low when the battery charger U1 is charging the battery 403. The signal CHRG is also applied to a VDD pin of the microprocessor 404 by way of a current limiting resistor R7. During conditions when the battery 403 is not charging the pin VDD is pulled up by way of 2.8 volts DC. During charging, the pin VDD is pulled low indicating that the battery 403 is not fully charged. The signal <POW IN> is applied to a transistor switch Q2. When input power is available, as indicated by the <POW IN> signal, the voltage regulator 406 and a current limiting resistor R11. When the micro-switch 409 is engaged as the blade assembly 330 is inserted into the dermaplaning device 300, the switch 408 closes pulling the port PB0 low. The micro-switch 408 is connected to a port PA0. In particular, port PA0 is normally pulled high by way of a 2.8 volt DC signal from the voltage regulator 406 and a current limiting resistor R6. When the micro-switch 409 is engaged as the blade assembly 330 is inserted into the dermaplaning device 300, the switch 406/407 closes pulling the port PA0 low. An on-off switch 406/407 is connected to port PB2 of the microprocessor 404. When the switch 406/407 is depressed, the port PB2 is pulled low, causing the motor 413 to be turned on, as discussed below.

As will be discussed below in connection with the control logic, the microprocessor 404 outputs a signal <MOT> to control the motor 413 that forms part of a vibration generator. The microprocessor 404 also controls LED0. The LED0 is connected between the output voltage of the regulator and a port PA1 by way of a current limiting resistor R8. The microprocessor 404 also develops a feedback signal <AD MOT> that is used to stabilize the vibration and to make it independent of the battery level.

An exemplary motor control circuit is illustrated. As shown, the motor 413 is powered from 4.2 volts DC, available at the positive terminal of the battery 403. The motor 413 is connected between the 4.2 volts DC and ground by way of a switching circuit and a feedback circuit. The motor 413 is connected between 4.2 volts DC, available at the battery 403 and ground by way of a switch circuit 412 and a resistor R12. The switch circuit 412 includes a switching transistor Q1 that is driven by the <MOT> signal by way of a current limiting resistor R9. When the signal <MOT> is asserted by the microprocessor 404, the transistor switch Q1 will cause the motor 413 to be connected to ground by way of the resistor R12. When the motor 413 is turned off, a free-wheeling diode D3 provides a current path and a capacitor C6. The diode D4 blocks the motor current from bypassing the switching circuit 412.

A feedback circuit 414 stabilizes the operation of the motor 413 and essentially isolates it from the level of the battery 403. Nominally, the battery 403 is at 4.2 volts DC. Once the motor 413 is turned on, a feedback signal <AD MOT> goes high and applies about 2.8 volts DC across the resistor R13. A capacitor C8 stabilizes this voltage. The resistors R10 and R13 form a voltage divider to provide a portion of the 2.8 volts from the <AD MOT> signal across the resistor R12. The voltage across R10 is stable and is applied to the resistor R12. The capacitor C7 stabilizes the voltage applied to the resistor R12. The constant voltage across R12 will cause a constant current to flow through the motor 413 irrespective of the level of the battery 403. The constant current will cause the motor to operate at a constant speed since the speed of a DC motor is proportional to current.

The device 300 includes two printed circuit boards (PCB). One PCB 405 (FIG. 27A) is located within the device 300 for interconnecting the components on the schematic diagram, illustrated in FIG. 32. The other PCB 429 is located in the cradle portion 308 of the base 306.

The software flow diagram that is executed by the microprocessor 404 (FIG. 32) is illustrated in FIG. 33. Initially, when the on/off switch 406/407 (FIG. 27B) is depressed in step 420, battery power is connected to the dermaplaning device 300, as indicated in step 424. Next in step 424, the system checks whether a blade assembly 330 is detected. More particularly, the system checks whether the micro-switches 408 and 409 (FIG. 27A) have been actuated-indicating that a blade assembly 330 has been full inserted into the device 300. If a blade assembly has not been detected, the system loops back to step 422 and keeps checking for the insertion of the blade assembly 330. Once a blade assembly 330 is inserted into the device 300, the motor 413 is started in step 424. In particular, the microprocessor 404 generates a <MOT> which is applied to gate of the transistor Q1 to turn the transistor Q1 on. This completes the circuit from the 4.2 volt supply voltage through the series motor to the ground by way of the resistor R12. The microprocessor 404 also generates the <AD MOT> signal to stabilize the speed of the motor 404 and isolate the speed of the motor 404 from the voltage of the battery 403. In addition, the microprocessor 404 illuminates the LED0 and causes it to blink with two long and two short pulses.

The system checks in step 426 whether the on/off switch 406/407 (FIG. 27A) has been switched off. If so, the system loops back to step 420 and waits for the switch 406/407 to be turned back on. If the switch 406/407 has not been turned off, the system checks in step 428 whether the blade assembly 330 has been at least partially released. In particular, as the blade assembly 330 is partially removed to the point the micro-switch 409 (FIG. 27A) is de-actuated, the microprocessor 404 causes the LED0 to blink at 4 KHz in step 430. As the blade assembly 330 is removed to the point the second micro-switch 408 is de-actuated, as indicated in step 432, the LED0 is turned steady on in step 434. The system then loops back to step 422 and waits for the blade assembly 330 to be detected.

After the system checks whether the on/off switch 406/407 has been depressed in step 426 and after the system the system checks whether the blade assembly 330 is fully inserted into the device 300 in step 428, the system checks in step 436 whether an external source of power has been connected to the primary winding 434 of the charger circuit, the voltage VDD is detected by the microprocessor 404 by way of a power in signal <POW IN>. The power in signal <POW IN> is a signal at the junction of the series connected resistors R1 and R3. The serially connected resistors R1 and R3 are in parallel with the output if the bridge rectifier 402. Thus, anytime an external source of power is connected to the primary winding 434 (FIG. 27A), the power is induced in the secondary winding 435, which causes an AC voltage across the resistors R1 and R3. This voltage, in turn, causes the signal <POW IN> to have a positive voltage indicating that the external power has been applied to the primary winding 434 and that the primary winding 434 is in the cradle 308 to cause the voltage on the primary winding 434 to be coupled to the secondary winding 400, as indicated in step 436. Once a voltage on the secondary winding 435 has been detected, the microprocessor 404 causes the LED0 to blink with four (4) long pulses in step in step 438.

The system also determines when the battery charge is complete. This is done by monitoring the CHRG pin on the battery charger U1, as indicated in step 440. Once the charge is complete, the microprocessor 404 turns the LED0 steady on in step 442 to indicate that the external source of power may be disconnected in step 444. Once the external source of power is removed, the signal <POW IN> goes low causing the system loops back to step 422.

FIG. 34 provides exemplary details for the vibration generator. In particular, the vibration generator 450 includes a motor 452 having a shaft 452 and a counterweight 454. The counterweight 454 is eccentrically configured and is attached to the motor shaft 452 so as to rotate with the motor shaft 452 without slippage. As the motor shaft 452 rotates, the counterweight 454 rotates. Because the counterweight 454 is eccentrically, i.e. not symmetrically, disposed relative to the motor shaft 452, rotation of the counterweight 454 causes vibrations to be transferred to the blade assembly 330, thus causing the blade assembly 330 to vibrate.

The counterweight 450 may be 3 mm in length and have a radius of 1.9 mm. The speed of the motor 440 is 10,000 RPM. As such, when the motor is energized with 1.5 volts DC and an operating current of 50 mA, the vibration generator 450 generates sub-sonic frequencies.

With reference to FIG. 27B, the dermaplaning device 300 includes a top housing portion 401 and a base housing portion 430. These housing portions 401 and 430 may be fastened together by various conventional means. For example, screws may be used and covered with screw covers, such as the screw cover 432. The sides of the housing are shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B. The top of the housing is shown in FIG. 23.

The symmetry of the device 300 makes it suitable for easily treating both the left and right sides of a person's face. The handle portion 304 (FIG. 21) is angled to be 40° to 60° with respect to the horizontal, preferably 50°. In addition, the device 330 is contoured to treat both sides of a person's face in a downward motion. To treat the right side of a person's face, the device 300 may be held with a person's right hand. Similarly, to treat the left side of a person's face, the device may be held with the persons left hand.

Embodiments One Through Three Outer Housing

As mentioned above, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary outer housing, generally identified with the reference numeral 20 that can be used with the various embodiments that include piezo-electric crystal and circuit and/or a motor and an optional rheostat for controlling the speed of the motor, for example, illustrated in FIGS. 2-6 and FIGS. 12-1S. The outer housing 20 may be formed as a cylindrical hollow member closed on each end and formed in two parts by way of injection molded plastic, for example, or other material. Specifically, the outer housing 20 includes an end cap 21 which forms a handle portion and a top cap 24 which forms a cover portion. The cover portion 24 may be configured to attach to a main housing 26, discussed below, at a parting line 27. The handle portion 21 attaches to the main housing 26 at a parting line 30. In this exemplary embodiment, an on-off switch and optional integrated LED (light emitting diode), generally identified with the reference numeral 29, for controlling power to the device is carried by the main housing 26 and may be exposed between the handle portion 21 and the cover portion 24. As discussed in more detail below, an optional thumb wheel control switch 31, carried by the main housing 26, may be used to control the speed of the motor 34.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative outer housing, generally identified with the reference numeral 23. The outer housing 23 is used in embodiments that do not include a rheostat and optional thumbwheel.

As used herein, the term housing refers to the outer housing 20 (FIG. 1) and 23 (FIG. 7) individually as well as the combination of the outer housing 21, 23 in combination with the main housing 28 (FIG. 2), individually and collectively.

Various embodiments of the blade assembly are contemplated. For example, FIGS. 13a-13f illustrate an embodiment with a 2 piece blade assembly which includes a scalpel and a removable blade. In this embodiment, the scalpel may be fixedly mounted to the main housing or alternatively may be coupled to the main housing with a bayonet mount or other conventional coupling means.

First Embodiment

Referring first to FIGS. 2-6, a first embodiment of the invention is illustrated and described and identified with the reference numeral 85. The first embodiment of the invention includes a main housing 28, a piezoelectric crystal 32, a DC motor 34, an eccentric rotary load 36, coupled to a shaft 38 and a power supply, such as a battery 22. It is further contemplated that the power supply for the device can be an alternating current power supply. Such alternating current power supplies are well known in the an.

The main housing 28 may be made from an electrically conductive material forming a battery holder portion, generally identified with the reference numeral 40 defining a positive battery contact 42 and a negative battery contact 44. As will be discussed in more detail, below, a portion of the wiring between the various devices can be accomplished by way of a printed circuit board 45 which may be formed from a flexible printed circuit board Alternatively, the printed circuit board 45 may be omitted and the connections between the various devices can be made with electrical wiring.

One end 46 of the main housing 28 may be formed with a reduced diameter cylindrical portion 48 which accomplishes several functions. First, as best shown in FIG. 3, an interior portion of the reduced diameter cylindrical portion 48 is configured to provide a friction tit for the piezoelectric crystal 32. Second, as best shown in FIG. 17, the exterior portion of the reduced diameter cylindrical portion 48 provides a bayonet interface for an exemplary replaceable blade 50 mounted with a bayonet interface that cooperates with the bayonet interface on the exterior portion of the reduced diameter portion 48. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, a safety cage 66 (FIG. 16a ) fits over the blade 50 to limit the penetration of the blade 50 into the facial skin.

Turning to FIG. 3, a sectional view of the first embodiment of the dermaplaning device 85, is illustrated. FIG. 3 illustrates the main housing 26 in detail and how all of the various components fit into it. As shown, the various components may be wired and connected, for example, by soldering to the printed circuit board 45.

As mentioned above, this embodiment includes a piezo-electric crystal for vibrating the blade 46 at an ultrasonic frequency defining an ultrasonic mode of operation. The device may also include a DC motor with at least one eccentric rotary loads, generally identified with the reference numeral 51 for generating a vibration frequency other than an ultrasonic vibration frequency defining a sub-ultrasonic frequency mode. The eccentric may be formed as a semi-circular disc 51. A stationary bearing 53 may be disposed axially outwardly from the disc 51 to stabilize the motor shaft 32. Depending on the speed of rotation of the motor shaft, a vibration will be created which will be transmitted to the blade assembly 50.

Driver circuits that drive piezo-electric crystals to generate ultrasonic sound waves/vibrations are well known in the art. Such circuits normally include an alternating current or voltage applied to the piezo-electric crystal. Examples of such driver circuits are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,509,626; 3,967,143 and US Patent Application Publication No. US 2003/0233085 A1. Such a driver circuit is also disclosed in South Korean patent publication no. KR 2004 0022550, all incorporated herein by reference. All references to a piezo electric devices are to be understood to include the driver circuit that causes the piezoelectric device to generate ultrasonic sound waves/vibrations. The driver circuit including its respective components may be disposed on the printed circuit board 45.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate the electrical details for controlling a device 50 that includes a piezoelectric element 32 and a DC motor 34 with at least one eccentric rotary load 51. A key aspect of the control is an optional exemplary 4-position rotary switch 31, as illustrated in FIGS. 4a-4d . Such 4 position switches are commonly available and include 4 wires. Normally open rotary contacts are provided between terminals 3 and 4 for controlling power to the piezo-electric crystal 32 and between terminal 1 and 2 for controlling power to the DC motor 34. The terminals 2 and 3 are connected together and to the positive terminal of the battery 22.

In a first position of the rotary switch 31, as shown in FIG. 4a , the contact between terminals 3 and 4 for controlling the power to the piezo-electric crystal 32 is open as is the contact between the terminals 1 and 2 for controlling power to the DC motor 34 is open. As such in the position illustrated in FIG. 4a , no power is delivered to either the piezo-electric crystal 32 or the motor 34. In a second position of the rotary switch 31, as illustrated in FIG. 4b , the contact between the terminals 3 and 4 is closed, thus providing power, i.e. connecting the +battery terminal, to the piezoelectric crystal 32. Since the contact between the terminals 1 and 2 is open, no power is delivered to the motor 34 when the switch 31 is in the position, as illustrated in FIG. 4b . FIG. 4c illustrates another OFF position in which the contact between the terminals 3 and 4 and the contact between the terminals 1 and 2 are both open, thus disconnecting the power from both the piezo-electric crystal 32 and the motor 34. FIG. 4d illustrates a position of the switch 31 in which the contact between the terminals 1 and 2 is closed thus providing power to the motor 34. Since the contact between terminals 3 and 4 is open in this position, no power is delivered to the piezoelectric crystal 32 in this position.

An exemplary schematic diagram for the dermaplaning device 85 is illustrated in FIG. 5. As shown, the circuit is powered by the battery 22. As discussed above, the rotary switch 31 enables the battery 22 to be selectively connected to the piezo-electric crystal 32 or alternatively to motor 34 defining an ultrasonic mode or a sub-ultrasonic frequency mode, respectively. Optional LEDs 54 and 56 may be provided to indicate the mode of the device 50. In particular, the LED 54 is connected in parallel with the piezo-electric crystal 32. Thus, any time the piezo-electric crystal 32 is connected to the positive terminal of the battery 22, the LED 54 is illuminated indicating that the device 50 is operating in an ultrasonic mode of operation. Similarly the optional LED 56 is connected essentially in parallel with the motor 34. Thus, any time the motor 34 is connected to the positive terminal of the battery 22, the LED 56 will be illuminated indicating a sub-ultrasonic mode of operation. Both LEDs 54 and 56 will be off when neither the piezoelectric crystal 32 nor the motor 34 are connected to the positive terminal of the battery 22.

An optional rheostat 58 may be connected in series with the motor 34. As is known in the art, the speed of a DC motor can be control the voltage applied to the motor. The optional rheostat 58 is adjustable and can be controlled to vary its resistance, which, in turn, varies the current and voltage to the motor 34. By varying the speed of the motor 22, the vibration frequency can be varied. As shown in FIG. 1, an optional thumb wheel 31 is accessible from outside the housing 20 to allow the rheostat 58 to be adjusted. The motor 34 may be operated at 600 RPM, for example.

FIG. 6 is an optional and exemplary printed circuit board 45 which may be used to connect the various components to the circuit. It is contemplated that the conFiguration of the printed circuit board 45 may be different from that shown. Also, various conventional techniques are contemplated for connecting the various components to the printed circuit board 45. One such technique is soldering. Alternatively, the printed circuit board 45 can be omitted and connections between the various components be made with electrical wires. It is also contemplated that the rotary switch 31, as well as the optional LEDs 54 and 56 and the optional rheostat 58 can be mounted on the printed circuit board 45.

Second Embodiment

The second embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 8-11 and identified with the reference number 185. In this embodiment, like components are identified with like reference numerals with a 1 prefix. In this embodiment, the dermaplaning device 185 only includes a piezoelectric crystal 132. As shown in FIG. 10, a simple single pole single throw micro switch 129 may be used to control the piezo-electric vibration device 132. An optional LED 154 may be included as part of the micro switch 129. A printed circuit board 145 may be provided for making the connections between the various devices. Moreover, the micro switch 129 may be mounted to the printed circuit board 145.

Third Embodiment

The third embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 12-15 and identified with the reference numeral 285. In this embodiment, like components are identified with like reference numerals with a 2 prefix. In this embodiment, the dermaplaning device 285 only includes a motor 234 and the eccentric rotary load 249 supported by a bearing 253. As shown in FIG. 14, a simple single pole single throw micro switch 229 may be used to control power to the motor 234. An optional LED 256 may be included as part of the micro switch 229. In addition, an optional rheostat 258 may be provided for controlling the speed of the motor 234. As shown best in FIG. 13, the rheostat 258 includes a thumb wheel 231. The thumb wheel 231 may optionally be mounted as shown in FIG. 1 to enable adjustment of the motor speed from the outside of the device 250. to A printed circuit board 245 may be provided for making the connections between the various devices. Moreover, the micro switch 229 may be mounted to the printed circuit board 245.

An alternate embodiment of the embodiment in FIG. 12 is illustrated in FIG. 13a . In this embodiment, like reference numerals with an “a” suffix are used to identify like parts. In this embodiment no rheostat is provided. Also, in this embodiment as well as the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12-15, the printed circuit board may be eliminated. In this embodiment as well as the other embodiments, the blade or scalpel 250 a can be bayonet mounted or fixedly mounted to the housing 228 a.

In all of such embodiments, the scalpel or blade 250 a can be a one piece blade and configured with a bayonet mount, as illustrated and described above. Alternatively, the blade 250 a can be formed as a 2 piece device; namely a scalpel 250 a with a removable blade 249 a, as shown in FIG. 13a . In such an embodiment, the scalpel 250 a may be fixedly mounted to the housing 228 a. Other configurations of a scalpel with a removable blade are also considered to be within the broad scope of the claims.

Scalpels with removable blades are extremely well known in the art. An example of a scalpel with a removable blade is illustrated and described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 1,139,796, hereby incorporated by reference. In embodiments with a removable blade 249 a, a safety cage 266 a, as discussed above, may be formed on the blade 249 a. The device illustrated in FIG. 13a may also include a safety cover, for example, a safety cover (not shown) similar to the safety cover 252 as shown in FIG. 12 which fits over the scalpel 250 a and the removable blade 249 a.

FIG. 13a illustrates the scalpel 250 a with a removable blade 249 a attached thereto. FIGS. 13b-13d illustrate bow the removable blade 249 a is attached to the scalpel 250 a. The scalpel 250 a is formed with a plurality of posts, for example 3 posts, identified with the reference numerals 253 a, 255 a and 257 a. These posts 253 a. 255 a and 257 a are formed on the scalpel and extend outwardly therefrom on one side as shown. These posts 253 a, 255 a and 257 a are formed to co-operate with slots 259 a, 261 a and 263 a, formed in the removable blade 253 a. As shown best in FIG. 13b , the slots 259 a and 259 b are open slots and are configured to receive the extending posts 255 a and 257 a on the scalpel 250 a. An aperture 263 a is formed in the blade 250 a for receiving the post 253 a formed on the scalpel 250 a. As is apparent from FIGS. 13e and 13f , the post 253 a is shorter than the posts 255 a and 257 a. This feature allows the post 253 a to snap in place and be received in the aperture 249 a and essentially lock the blade 249 a in place with respect to the scalpel 250 a.

Another alternate embodiment of the embodiment in FIG. 12 is illustrated in FIG. 13g . In this embodiment, like reference numerals with an “b” suffix are used to identify like parts. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13a except in this embodiment, the device 285 is provided with a one-piece blade 252 b that attaches to the device by way of a bayonet mount, as discussed above. In this embodiment a blade cover 270 b is provided. The blade cover 270 b may be provided with a c-type cross-section and formed with a spring force causing buttons, generally identified with the reference numeral 272 b to pinch the blade 252 b once the cover 270 b is slid over the blade 252 b.

The Blade

An important aspect of the invention relates to the blade assembly 50, 150, 250. The blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is best shown in FIGS. 16-18. As best shown in FIG. 18, the blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is mounted to a generally cylindrical portion 60 and is configured to mate with the cylindrical portion 48 (FIG. 2) attached to the handle portion 21 (FIG. 1). The blade assembly 50. 150, 250 is only used on a single user. As such, the blade 62 assembly 50, 150, 250 is removable for disposal and replaced for each new user and for each use.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 18, the cylindrical portion 60 of the blade assembly 50. 150, 250 is configured to attach to the cylindrical portion 48 attached to the handle portion 21, for example by way of a bayonet connection. Other connections are also suitable.

In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the blade assembly 50, 150, 250 includes a surgical blade or scalpel 62 and a molded housing 64, shown best in FIG. 17 with a wedge shaped cross section. The blade 62 extends along an axis generally parallel to or at an acute angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the device housing 20 (FIG. 1), 23 (FIG. 7). In order to limit the depth of the cut into the skin and to prevent non-professionals from accidentally cutting below the epidermis layer of facial skin, a safety cage 66 is juxtaposed over an extending portion of the blade 62. More particularly, the safety cage 66 extends over a cutting edge 67 of the blade 62 and extends from the blade housing 64. As best shown in FIG. 16a , the safety cage 66 is formed as an exemplary comb-like structure defining posts 68 and valleys 70. The comb-like structure 66 may be injection molded over the cutting edge 67 of the blade 62. Alternatively, the comb-like structure 66 may be snapped in place over the cutting edge 67 of the blade 62. The depth of the valleys 70 limits the depth of the cut by limiting the depth of the valleys 70, for example, to several millimeters. As such, the blade assembly 50, 150, 250 is rendered safe for use by non-professionals as apart of a dermaplaning device.

As mentioned above, two piece blades or scalpels may be used. In such embodiments, the safety cage is provided over the cutting edge portion of the removable blade.

Process

A process for treating facial skin is described for non-professionals. An exemplary process for treating facial skin by the non-professional is discussed below which includes dermaplaning.

1. Cleanse: This step prepares the skin for the dermaplaning procedure. It effectively removes makeup as well as product residue, while ridding the skin of surface oils. Moisten face with warm water, apply a small amount of cleanser to moist palm, form lather with hands and massage onto face. Rinse with warm water and repeat. Blot skin dry

2. Dermaplane: Use a hand-held dermaplaning device which includes a blade and embedded vibration technology, for example, as disclosed above, that is safe for use by non-professionals which safely exfoliates the skin. Dermaplaning devices with a blade and embedded vibration technology other than the one described herein are also suitable. The vibration technology maximizes the blades efficiency while stimulating micro circulation and lymphatic activity. Skin is not only deeply exfoliated, but all traces of built up debris and vellus hair are removed. Skin is left baby soft, product penetration is maximized.

Begin by grasping the and switching on the device. A subtle vibration will immediately be noticed.

As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, begin the treatment at the center of face focusing on right side, using gentle yet firm pressure move the device across forehead and towards hair line, following the contours of your face, avoiding the brow and eye area.

Once you have completed the upper face move to the lower face and begin again at the centerline using the same gentle but firm pressure moving the device along the jawline up toward the ear. Continue working up and onto the cheek moving from the nose toward the ear following the contour of the cheek. The nose and eye area should be avoided. When working around the mouth use short strokes with gentle yet firm pressure and move toward the vermillion border (edge of lip) and avoid the surface of the lip.

The dermaplaning device is very efficient at exfoliating the skin and no more than two passes in any area are necessary. When the right side of the face is completed, move to the left side, following the same pattern.

3. Peel A chemical peel completes the exfoliation process. Various chemical peels are suitable. For example, a chemical peel comprising a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids combined with an anti-oxidant compound, for example, Bioperfect's Anti-Oxidant Complex, completes the exfoliation process and amplifies cellular turnover to help stimulate production of collagen. This peel is to be used immediately following the use of the dermaplaning device.

Open prepared peel pad. Begin on forehead, apply peel to entire face and neck beginning on forehead and using a circular motion. Avoid contact with delicate eye and lip areas.

4. Post Treatment Comforting Balm-Use a balm that has been specifically formulated to comfort, nourish, and protect delicate post treatment skin. The balm is absorbed deeply into newly exfoliated skin, leading to optimum absorption of our proprietary multi-dimensional complex of cosmeceuticals.

Use a small amount and massage into face and neck avoiding eye area.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, one or more of the steps in the process excluding the dermaplaning step may be eliminated. Thus, it is to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described above. 

I claim:
 1. A hand-held dermaplaning device comprising: a main housing for carrying the respective components; a blade carried by said housing; a vibration generator for generating vibrations carried by said housing; a power supply for powering the vibration generator; a switch for selectively connecting said power supply to said vibration generator; and a safety cage juxtaposed over said blade configured to limit the depth that said blade can penetrate the skin.
 2. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said vibration generator includes a piezo-electric crystal.
 3. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said vibration generator includes a motor and an eccentric rotary load.
 4. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said vibration generator includes a piezo-electric crystal and a motor and said switch is configured to enable one or the other piezo-electric crystal and said motor to be alternatively selected.
 5. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said blade extends along an axis generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of said main housing.
 6. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 3, wherein said motor is a DC motor.
 7. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 6, further including a rheostat for controlling the speed of the motor.
 8. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, further including an outer housing configured to be received said main housing.
 9. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said safety cage is formed as a comb like structure.
 10. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 10, wherein said safety cage is juxtaposed over said cutting edge of said blade.
 11. A process for treating facial skin, the process comprising the steps of (a) dermaplaning with a hand-held dermaplaning device wherein the device is configured to limit the depth of the cut by the device.
 12. The process as recited in claim 11 further including the step of cleansing the area of the skin to be treated before the dermaplaning step.
 13. The process as recited in claim 11 further including the step of performing a chemical peel to the treated area after the dermaplaning step.
 14. The process as recited in claim 11 further including the step of applying a balm to the treated area after the dermaplaning step.
 15. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said blade is a one piece blade.
 16. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 1, wherein said blade is a 2 piece device that includes a removable blade.
 17. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 15, wherein said blade is removably mounted to said housing.
 18. The hand-held dermaplaning device as recited in claim 15, wherein said blade is fixedly mounted to said housing. 